6 Oktober 2014

Biome Bioplastics launches new material for 3D printing

Biome3D combines the benefits of both plant and oil-based printing filaments

Made from plant starches, Biome3D is a biodegradable plastic that combines easy processing and a superior print finish, while offering much higher print speeds. Developed in partnership with 3Dom Filaments, the new material was unveiled today at the TCT Show 2014, the leading event dedicated to 3D printing, additive manufacturing and product development.

Plant-based plastics are already a popular choice for 3D printing because they are much easier to work with during processing, and are food safe and odour free. They are a great example of how sustainable alternatives can gain market share based on their performance, rather than just their ‘green credentials’. However, oil-based printing filaments are still used because they have a higher softening point and make more flexible models that will bend before they break.

Biome3D combines the benefits of both plant and oil-based printing filaments and demonstrates that high performance plant-based plastics can be the ideal material for the 3D printing industry. Biome3D combines a superior finish and flexibility, with ease of processing and excellent printed detail. In addition, and perhaps most importantly for the industry, it runs at much higher print speeds, reducing overall job times.

Sally Morley, Sales Director at Biome Bioplastics, explains:

“The future of bioplastics lies in demonstrating that plant-based materials can outperform their traditional, oil-based counterparts. Our new material for the 3D printing market exemplifies that philosophy. Biome3D combines the best processing qualities with the best product finish; it also happens to be made from natural, renewable resources.”

Biome Bioplastics develops high performance, plant-based plastics for a wide range of applications, from catering to electronics. The company is committed to challenging the dominance of oil-based plastics and changing perceptions of the capabilities of biopolymers. Last year Biome Bioplastics launched the first compostable solution for single-serve coffee pods, one of the fastest growing segments of the food and drinks industry. The partnership with 3Dom Filaments represents their first move into the 3D printing industry.

3D printing has been heralded as an important step towards more sustainable manufacturing. Potential environmental benefits include reduced transport emissions from lighter materials that can be developed closer to point of purchase, more efficient use of raw materials, and reduced number of parts needed for assembly. 3D printing also gives the ability to produce products on demand and to customise and optimise parts to improve efficiency.